Bandit attacks and violent clashes in Katsina State have forced residents of more than 10 communities to suspend Friday Juma’at prayers, local officials and residents said. The disruption reflects the growing insecurity in rural areas of the state.
Fear spread through villages in the Musawa, Kankara and Malumfashi local government areas after rival bandit groups engaged in a prolonged gun battle. The fighting lasted several hours and erupted near several rural settlements, residents told Premium Times.
Earlier in the week, a large band of armed men launched a daytime raid on Dangani town in Musawa LGA. Witnesses said the attackers rode in on more than 70 motorcycles. The gunmen smashed phone shops, seized mobile phones from charging stations and took devices from people they met on the streets.
A community leader said the later fighting was between two rival bandit commanders known locally as Buzaru and Wada. The clash reportedly began after one group tried to seize cattle belonging to the other. The resulting gunfight took place around the villages of Garangozai and Gidan Mai Maijimina, with shots fired throughout the day.
The violence prompted fear among residents who usually gather for the weekly Juma’at prayers. Many villagers chose to stay home rather than risk travelling to local mosques. Some community leaders said people were too afraid to leave their homes, citing the threat of gunfire or sudden attacks.
The suspension of prayers comes amid a broader wave of bandit attacks in northwestern Nigeria. Katsina and neighboring states like Zamfara have seen frequent raids on villages, kidnappings and clashes between rival armed groups and security forces.
Officials have repeatedly vowed to strengthen security in affected areas. But residents say the persistent violence continues to disrupt daily life, including vital community activities like worship and farming.
